Sunday, February 26, 2012

What is Insight Observatory

Over the last few decades, the emergence of remotely controlled robotic observatories has opened up endless possibilities for using this technology for astronomy education in our public schools, universities and from our own homes. As the project planners of Insight Observatory, we are excited about these new developments, and this brings us to the mission of Insight Observatory: To utilize established Remote Robotic Telescope Facilities (such as iTelescope.net and the Las Cumbres Telescope Network ) as well as implement a remotely controlled robotic telescope of our own, housed in an observatory located in the dark skies of southern New Mexico, that will accessible by students, faculty and amateur astronomers for their science curricula.

6" f/3,7 Astrograph Dream Telescope

The name "Insight Observatory" was given to the project as it seemed to be an appropriate designation. The name is relative to its mission, providing insight to students and the general public by exposing them to the science of astronomy and the research projects that are available for them to participate in and possibly contribute to the discovery.

While we are in the beginning stages of conducting research projects with students gathering data from established remote imaging facilities, we are currently seeking funds to obtain the required equipment to reach our goal of housing a 16" f/3,7 Astrograph Dream imaging telescope and Paramount mounting system donated by Project Co-Founder Muir Evenden. The additional funds that are needed will be used to purchase a camera and observatory space for the telescope.